21 Things To Do In Huntsville Ontario by a Local Expert 2025

Looking for the best things to do in Huntsville? Let a local give you some ideas!

Welcome to my hometown of Huntsville, Ontario! Known for the natural beauty  of its surrounding lakes, trees and hills, people flock to the area to enjoy nature and a slower country lifestyle. 

But there’s more to Huntsville than the trees, rocks, and water, so let me show you the local perspective: our culture, history and things we love to do! 

As someone who grew up just outside of Huntsville, went to school in Huntsville, and now lives in Huntsville, I know this town like the back of my hand and am always excited to show it off to new visitors. So let’s get going!

Best Things To Do in Huntsville

Whether you are here for a day or for two weeks, I’ve compiled the best things to do in Huntsville throughout the year. I’ve lived here most of my life and I’ve toured my international friends around enough to know which are the absolute best attractions and activities to give you an authentic Canadian experience!

1. Explore the Historic Downtown

The easiest and best way to get to know Huntsville is to walk Main Street in the historic downtown. It’s beautiful and has a fantastic collection of shops ranging from interior décor, to jewelry, to our iconic, old-fashioned candy and ice cream store called the Nutty Chocolatier (they do awesome ice cream milkshakes!) I had my first-ever job scooping ice cream at Nutty.

There are also some amazing restaurants, breweries and pubs. My top recommendations would be The Mill on Main for food, the Pub on the Docks for drinks with a view, and the Lake of Bays Brewhouse for in-house made beer and food.

Check out my top breakfast recommendations in Huntsville.

Don’t forget to check out the historic green swing bridge where Main Street crosses the Muskoka River by wandering around Pizza Pizza, past Pub on the Docks, and down to the public town docks. From here you’ve got a lovely view of the bridge and you could go swimming off the docks if it’s not too busy with boats. 

Wander up behind Algonquin Outfitters to let the kids play in River Mill Park, or get a coffee or gelato (or both together) at Affogato Café.

If you are interested in the history of the town, there is a FREE walking tour in the STQRY Guide app that has a map with locations of historical buildings and landmarks, with written and audio descriptions of each site accompanied by historic pictures.

2. Soak Up the View from Lion’s Lookout

Past the high school and the Summit Centre and up a big hill, you will reach Lion’s Lookout. This viewpoint is the highest point in town and provides spectacular views over Huntsville and Fairy Lake.

It’s something you just have to see!

In the summer, you can drive and park at the top of the hill – but it’s a very steep hill. During the fall, it will be packed with tourists coming to see the fall colours, so probably park at the bottom of the hill in the little parking lot and walk up, if you’re able.

In the winter the road is closed for safety, but you could still walk up if you have the appropriate footwear.

3. Go Back in Time at Muskoka Heritage Place

4. Sip on a Craft Beer

In the heart of downtown Huntsville are two breweries, so if you love craft beer, we’ve got you! Check out the Huntsville Brewhouse for great pub grub and flights of craft beer for your sampling pleasure.

Then, if  you want to compare and contrast, walk across the old, green, swing bridge to Canvas Brewery. Their tap room has 20 taps for you to sample. This is a craft beer lover’s dream!

5. Adventure at Arrowhead Provincial Park

Not 10 minutes north of town is Arrowhead Provincial Park (where I worked for two summers as a teenager, by the way). I highly recommend spending at least half a day to a full day here, but you can camp here too! 

If you want to go camping here however, you will have to book online exactly 5 month ahead of your desired start date when the booking opens, as it fills up very quickly.

There are two lakes in the park, Mayflower Lake and Arrowhead Lake. Mayflower is smaller, but perhaps more beautiful, and is on the left as you drive into the park. There is a trail to hike next to it and a spot for picnics, but  there is much more to discover in this park further in!

You can hang out at the beaches at Arrowhead Lake, rent a canoe, kayak, stand up paddleboard (SUP), or mountain bike, walk the trail all the way around the lake and beyond.

Remember to check out the visitor centre and gift shop. There is a small store with Arrowhead or Ontario Parks merchandise, as well as ice cream, a bit of camping supplies, and worms for fishing. This building becomes the major hub in the winter as the main spot to warm up after skiing on the trails.

6. Enjoy the Water

This is why so many people flock to Huntsville and the surrounding areas in the summer: the water! 

We LOVE our water sports and swimming to cool off in the heat of July and August (June is hot too but the bugs make it very hard to enjoy being outside). 

We have a few public places to choose from if you want to go for a dip near Huntsville’s town centre: Hutcheson Beach and Avery Beach, or at Camp Kitchen Road Park directly below Lions Lookout. 

The last option is less well known, but has a grassy park and great swimming area. You’ll also get to see our Heritage Place steam train pull in and turn around here, taking families on short rides.

7. Go for a Paddle

When you wander down to the town docks, you’ll see a bunch of water craft, like canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards (SUPs), at the back of Algonquin Outfitters. 

This store is named after Algonquin Park, the first Ontario Provincial Park which is only about half an hour from Huntsville (or at least the start of the park – it’s massive) and Algonquin Outfitters supplies everything you’d need for a wilderness adventure in the park, from tents to socks to a canoe rental.

For those who are short on time, but still want to experience a classic Canadian tradition and pastime, you can rent a canoe from Algonquin Outfitters right there, in Huntsville, put in at the docks and start paddling! 

If you are new to canoeing, please ask an Algonquin Outfitters’ staff member to give you the basics. 

Then, you could easily go up or down the river until you reach a large body of water. I would recommend that you turn around here, as it is harder for beginners to stay safe in open water. You’ll get to see local houses, cottages, and a glimpse of my High School from the river, along with beautiful nature scenes.

8. Enjoy a Nature Walk

Huntsville and Muskoka are known for their nature and outdoor lifestyle, so there are many beautiful places to go for a walk, but here are some trails right close to town.

The Hunter’s Bay Trail

This 4.6 km trail runs from Highway 11 to Centre Street in the heart of Huntsville and is a favourite for locals and visitors alike. You can walk, run, or cycle smaller chunks of it, as there are a couple of access points.

The main parking lot for the trail is next to the river off of Centre Street North. But, you could also park at Avery Beach.

This trail is relatively flat and easy, but not necessarily wheelchair accessible, as it traverses gravel, roots and occasional rough sections. Between Avery Beach and Hwy. 11, the trail turns into a floating boardwalk on Hunter’s Bay that is visible from the highway, making it the icon of the trail.

Fairy Vista Trail

Just 7 minutes drive from downtown Huntsville is the Fairy Vista Trail.

As the name suggests, you get great views of Fairy Lake as you walk along this path. Push a stroller or let older kids ride their bikes as you enjoy a leisurely day outdoors. Plus, dogs are welcome, but be sure to keep them on a leash!

There are two access points to the Fairy Vista Trail. The first access point is located off Hwy. 60 on Fairyview Drive, where you can find streetside parking. 

However, I recommend the second point, which is on Grandview Forest Hill Drive, about halfway down the trail, with a dedicated parking lot at the first driveway on the right. From here, you can enjoy an out-and-back walk in both directions.

9. Catch a Show at the Algonquin Theatre

The Algonquin Theatre is at the heart of the community, literally in the centre of town, attached to the Town Hall. It holds a special place in my heart as I’ve been involved with many plays held there and even my graduation from public school was there.

If you are planning your trip to Huntsville in advance, check to see if there are any shows that you’d like to attend and book early.

10. Attend an Event by the Huntsville Festival of the Arts

Huntsville is a hopping place in the summer with lots of shows and markets, largely organized by the Huntsville Festival of the Arts. From quality concerts and plays at the Algonquin Theatre, to a drag festival, to Nuit Blanche North showcasing local businesses and artists, there’s something for everyone. 

The Huntsville Festival of the Arts also partners with other local events to help support then, such as the Sandhill Fall Festival (keep reading for more details).

11. Check Out the Huntsville Farmers’ Market

Every Thursday at 9 a.m. to 2p.m. from mid-May to mid-October the Huntsville Farmers’ Market is held at the Huntsville Fairground on Ravenscliffe Road! Dogs on leashes are welcome too!

You will find a wide variety of seasonal produce, meats, dairy, art, home decor, bath products, and more! The market used to be held in the Canadian Tire Parking lot for decades, but the move to the fairgrounds brings a calmer and cooler setting already associated with agriculture and home-craft.

Every September, the Huntsville Agricultural Society holds their Fall Fair on these same grounds. There are prizes for the best vegetables, animals, and home-crafts like baking, preserves, etc., and a midway with lots of rides. It’s definitely something to check out if you’re here at the right time.

12. Interact with Animals

If you want something wholesome to do in Huntsville, with or without kids, where you get to enjoy the company of horses and other farm animals, you’ve got to check out these beautiful farms.

Back of Beyond

If you want a taste of farm life, a quick wagon or sleigh ride, or even more, this horse facility has something for everyone. 

Activities do vary from season to season, but Back of Beyond offers the following throughout the year:

• Wagon rides
• Cozy winter sleigh rides
• Romantic evening sleigh rides
• Saddle up with Santa
• Family Fun on the Farm
• Kids summer horse camp
• Kids’ pony rides
• Pony Birthday Parties
• Equine Therapy

Winter sleigh rides book fast, so save your spot now!

Peca Farm

The Peca Farm is a family-run petting farm that also offers wagon and sleigh rides. I actually grew up with the Peca girls and have known the family my whole life. It’s amazing to have watched them develop this beautiful property and farm venture over the years.

They are the friendliest people you will ever meet! They have select opening hours, so be sure to double check before you go.

13. Venture into the Limberlost Forest and Wildlife Preserve

Want even more outdoor adventures near Huntsville?

Just 22 minutes drive from Huntsville, the Limberlost Forest and Wildlife Reserve is a year-round wilderness haven you won’t want to miss. Spanning over 10,000 acres and twenty lakes, this private wilderness area offers a breathtaking escape into nature.

With more than 70 km of trails for hiking, biking, skiing, and snowshoeing, there’s plenty to explore— and best of all, access is completely free! They have various maps for different activities so be sure to follow them closely and not get lost.

Limberlost takes pride in its Conscientious Forest Management approach, which focuses on sustainability and preserving the beauty of the forest for future generations. They encourage visitors and eco-tourists to enjoy the natural surroundings while supporting important environmental research programs.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful hike or an exciting biking trail, visiting Limberlost Forest is truly one of the best things to do in Huntsville for anyone who loves the outdoors!

14. Treetop Trekking

Do you or your kids want a bit of an adventure? A challenge? A thrill? 

Treetop Trekking will deliver. 

This activity centre has built an obstacle course in the trees. I hope you aren’t afraid of heights and your balance is good. You’ll be challenged with crossing wobbly bridges, cable walking, and ziplines. 

It’s all very safe, of course. Your safety harness is attached to a running cable the whole time.

I’ve done it myself with my sister and our friends a few years ago and it was great – except I hate heights. The facilities are fantastic and the staff are great. Go walk on the wild side!

15. Go Golfing

The tourism industry in this area was founded by large resorts on various lakes for those retreating from busy life in Toronto in the late 1800s. Many of those resorts survive as modern resorts, spas, and golf courses!

There are three public and one private golf courses within a 10 minute drive of downtown Huntsville.  Deerhurst Highlands (18 hole, par 72), Deerhurst Lakeside (9 hole, par 32) and Huntsville Downs (18 hole, par 72) are all public courses located amongst forests and lake views.  Grandview’s Mark O’Meara course is part of the ClubLink group which requires membership. 

All are open from early May to mid-October.  

Bonus: Mulligan’s Muskoka Golf Lounge is right in town and features a golf simulator, bar and lounge and axe throwing.  Enjoy golf year-round with this unique experience.

16. Experience Sandhill Nursery’s Fall Festival

This garden centre just outside of Huntsville is a super unique and fun place to be for kids and adults in October, and every year, they keep getting bigger and better. 

I grew up going to Sandhill for our Christmas trees, and maybe some plants or soil in the spring, when it was a small, quaint facility with quality products. They still have quality, but boy have they expanded!

The autumn would normally be a slow season for garden centres, but Sandhill has built a fall festival with live performances, food, drinks, a maze, two kid play areas, and pumpkin slingshots that keep people streaming through the elaborately decorated driveway. 

Entrance is by donation and all donations go to a charity chosen for that year.

Keep in mind, you can visit Sandhill any time of the year as they carry a lot of beautiful home decor, particularly, good Christmas decorations.

17. Get Even Sweeter at Sugarbush Hill Maple Farm

A lot of international visitors think they’ve been eating maple syrup all their lives, when in fact they’ve been eating the cheaper maple flavoured syrup, which is VERY different.

We take maple syrup very seriously in Canada, particularly in Ontario and Quebéc. Canada produces about 75% of the world’s maple syrup.

Come learn what it takes to make this all-natural sweet syrup at the Sugarbush Hill Maple Farm. They will be happy to show you around, do educational presentations, and sell maple syrup and other maple goodies year-round. They are proud of their sustainability practices and invite visitors to explore their trails through the maple trees.

18. Go Wild with Wild Play

Do you want a real Muskoka experience? Something made by locals? Something wild?

Find Your Wild is an activities and adventure company founded by one of the teachers from my old high school. The students affectionately shortened his name to Hondo and so it remains as he’s built Find Your Wild for adults and kids to explore our natural areas in unique ways.

In the summer, you can go for axe throwing, archery, and stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), all guided by the adventure activity expert himself. Bring your small team or large group and you could have the best team-building day of your life!

You can still do axe throwing and archery in the winter, but you can also go on a snowshoe safari, cross-country ski adventure, or enjoy authentic, local, Canadian winter traditions in the Winter Discovery Package!

Get back into nature, unplug from the unnecessary stuff, and find your wild! You’ll love it.

19. Slide into Downhill Skiing

If skiing or snowboarding is your thing, head to Hidden Valley Highlands ski area.  Only 6 km from Huntsville, Hidden Valley has 15 trails which includes a terrain park and a beginner hill.  There are 3 quad chair lifts and 1 handle tow.  They offer rentals, ski school and night skiing. There is a cafeteria and lounge area for warming up and getting lunch.

Most students in Huntsville have the opportunity to try out skiing during their winter electives program in school.  I participated in grade 4, and discovered that downhill skiing was not for me.  That makes me the odd-one-out in this town.

It would be wise to book ski school and rentals online to avoid disappointment. You can get a lift ticket as a walk-in or online.

Open December to March, depending on the weather so check current conditions before you go!

20. Winter Adventures at Arrowhead

Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and skating through the forest – some of the best things to enjoy in Muskoka during winter, all in one spot!  Arrowhead Provincial Park has trails for each of these activities and equipment rental as well.  You must buy a daily vehicle permit online to enter the park and then you can try all of these activities in one day. 

A bucket-list activity for many is the ice trail, a 1.3 km skating loop through a wooded area.  Check out the Fire and Ice nights when the skating trail is lit by torches.  Book early, as this activity is very popular.   

Winter camping is also available in 13 camp cabins – rustic one-room heated cabins with beds and cooking facilities.  There’s always something fun to do at Arrowhead.

21. Extend Your Trip to Algonquin Provincial Park

If you have a day to spend outside of Huntsville, go to Algonquin Provincial Park (or “The Park” to many locals). Algonquin Park is the oldest and one of the largest Provincial Parks, and is only  about a half hour from Huntsville.  

In the summer you can go for a hike, swim at one of the campground beaches, go fishing,  bike along a trail, or visit the Art Centre, Logging Museum or Visitor Centre.  You should purchase your day pass online or by phone prior to your visit.  They often sell out.

Hiking Recommendations in Algonquin Park

I really like the Track and Tower Trail. It is a moderate difficulty, 7.7 km loop trail which will take about three hours. The best part is the spectacular view of Cache Lake. Take water and some lunch for a picnic with a view.  

Another, shorter hike with a fabulous view is the 1.9 km (1 hour) Lookout Trail.  This is at km 39.7.  You look out over a vast area of the Park, which in the fall, highlights the gorgeous colours of the changing leaves. 

Be careful driving in the park in the autumn, as the “leaf peepers” (people visiting just for the fall colours) line the sides of the road (illegally) and fill the parking lots in their quest for the perfect picture.

Camping Options in Algonquin Park

There are eight campgrounds along the Highway 60 corridor, so if you have more time, you can book a campsite and spend a few days exploring the park. 

For the more adventurous, there is backcountry camping. There are backpacking trails and canoe routes galore.  I’ve been taking canoe trips into the park with my family since I was little.  One of my favourites is Smoke Lake, through Big Porcupine, into Bonnechere Lake.

I suggest working with Algonquin Outfitters, as they offer 3 options to set your trip up for success: a short course to learn everything you need to know, get a guide for a day, and get a guide for your customized trip!

Year-round Activities in Algonquin Park

Summer is not the only time you can visit.  There is skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing in the winter.  Or try winter camping in a Yurt (a tent-like structure with electric heat).  

In the spring and fall, hiking, bird watching and camping are all fun things to do, with maybe a few less people. I hope you love your Algonquin adventure!

Where to Stay in Huntsville, Ontario

If you’re looking for a convenient spot to stay in Huntsville, I’ve got two budget-friendly options for you! However, please keep in mind, Huntsville has pretty much no public transportation, so it’s recommended to have a vehicle to get around.

Best Hotel in Town: Best Western

If you are looking for a standard hotel in Huntsville, we have quite a few options – but I’ll tell you which is best. The Best Western Plus, of course!

Now, I only recommend the best places for my readers from my personal experience and lengthly background research. But I can say this: Best Western Plus is great because I’ve actually been a housekeeper here! I know that the people who work here are awesome, staff are treated well, the cleanliness standards are super high, and some of the rooms even have jacuzzi tubs!

This hotel is also ideally located close to Hwy 11 and Hwy 60, walking distance from Walmart and some restaurants. But you will need a car to get into the downtown.

The hotel facilities include a pool, a gym, a great grab-and-go hot breakfast with a dining room, and each room includes TVs and coffee makers with a mix of tea and coffee supplied.

Quality Budget: Roadway Inn King William

Experience the charm of downtown Huntsville at the Rodeway Inn King William, where comfort meets convenience. This classic Inn has been around for decades, but its renovated guest rooms are designed with high-end finishes to ensure a cozy stay. Included amenities are free Wi-Fi, cable TV, air conditioning, a refrigerator, and a coffee maker. Many rooms even include a spa bath or a flat-screen TV for that extra touch of luxury.

Perfectly situated just 11 minutes walk to the historic downtown, you’ll find shopping and dining options within easy reach. With complimentary on-site parking, you are set in the heart of town ready to go without having to find parking. Book your stay today and enjoy the ideal blend of relaxation and accessibility at Rodeway Inn King William!

FAQs

Ask me all your questions! This is my town and I’ve got the answers!

How to spend a day in Huntsville, Ontario?

That really depends on the time of year and your hunger for adventure, as there are so many things to see and do in Huntsville, Ontario.

I would narrow the best things to do in Huntsville down to exploring the historic downtown shops and food, then heading to Arrowhead Provincial Park for an outdoor adventure.

Is Huntsville Ontario worth visiting?

Yes, very much worth it. Visiting Huntsville will leave you marvelling at the historic architecture, inspire you with our love for all things nature, and give you a taste of the Muskoka lifestyle. It will definitely motivate you to come back to keep discovering all the cool things to do in Huntsville.

What’s near Huntsville?

Parks near Huntsville include Arrowhead and Algonquin Provincial Parks. Nearby towns and villages include: Rousseau, Dwight, Dorset, Baysville, Emsdale and Bracebridge. “Near” means a 10-30 minute drive away.

Is Huntsville considered Muskoka?

Yes, Huntsville is a town within the District of Muskoka.

What is so great about Muskoka?

Lots of lakes and wilderness spaces are what most people would say is great about Muskoka. This area has been used traditionally as an escape from city life, so the lifestyle adopted by many here is oriented around leisure time on a lake with family and friends.

Wrap Up

Well, there you go! Those are the best things to do in Huntsville from a real local! No matter what season you come to visit, there is always something to see and some adventure to embark on!

From the historic downtown, great food, and culture, to adventures out in nature, I hope you find something that suits you and you really enjoy your time in my hometown of Huntsville.